(July 19, 2013)—Edgewater residents John and Cathy Belcher have made an unprecedented and far-reaching minimum $10 million long-term commitment to Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC). The Belcher’s multi-year commitment includes a $1 million outright gift over a period of years and an extraordinary, irrevocable estate gift.

“We are honored the Belchers believe our service to the community is deserving of this legacy gift,” said Tori Bayless, AAMC’s president and CEO. “Today we are not only celebrating the largest bequest to AAMC but the impact this donation will have on the care we provide many years in the future.”

To honor the Belchers for their unparalleled foresight and generosity, AAMC will rename the Health Sciences Pavilion the “John and Cathy Belcher Pavilion.” In addition, the AAMC Foundation will establish the John and Cathy Belcher Society to recognize individuals who bequeath gifts of $100,000 or greater.

“This donation will help ensure that our families, friends, neighbors and co-workers have access to the finest health care for decades to come,” said JoAnn DeCesaris, AAMC Foundation board chair. “What a lasting impact on our community.”

“Planned gifts are a powerful way to leave a legacy,” said Jan Wood, president, AAMC Foundation, and chief development officer. “This generous donation enhances the Belchers’ commitment to the future of the best medical services for our community.”

John Belcher is chairman and CEO of the locally headquartered international communications and engineering firm, ARINC, a current member of the AAMC Board of Trustees and past chair of the AAMC Foundation Board of Directors. He also chaired the hospital’s Care Like no Other capital campaign, which concluded in 2011 and funded the building that now bears their name.